Scholarship program offers early networking

By JENNIFER R. GARCIA

Experience, networking and scholarship money are just a few of the benefits available to students through the Maddy Institute Scholarship Intern Program, which is again available for 2005 spring and summer semesters.

The institute has increased the number of scholarship internships awarded by 50 percent, from 14 in previous years to 21 for the upcoming year.

Scholarship interns can work on the staff of U.S. Senators and Congressmen as well as California assembly members and senators.

Internships are available in Fresno, Sacramento and Washington, D.C., and students may request their preference.

Interns also receive scholarship money to help with living expenses during their internship. Students receive $5,000 for a Washington D.C. internship, $4,000 for a Sacramento internship and $1,000 for a Fresno internship. The Maddy Institute will also help the interns find other scholarships to supplement their income while interning.

"This is an investment in your career," Maddy Institute director Mark Keppler said. "You aren't going to get rich with this internship, but the networking opportunity is invaluable."

Students applying for this program must have a 3.0 GPA, have junior standing and be a U.S. resident.

“The purpose of this program is to develop the next generation of government leaders in the San Joaquin Valley,” Keppler said. “So preference may be given to those applicants who demonstrate a long-term commitment to this area.”

Ana Melendez, a senior political science major, was selected as a scholarship intern in spring 2003 and was appointed to the staff of Assemblywoman Sarah Reyes.

“I really encourage others to take part in this program,” Melendez said. “Not only do you get to see how a government office runs, but it will really add luster to your résumé.”

The deadline for applications is Dec. 10, and students of all majors are eligible. Applications are available on the Maddy Institute Web site at www.maddyinstitute.org.